How to use face shields

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Face shields are a simple and effective means of protection against coming into contact with vomit, blood or other substances when providing breaths.

It is important to remember that don't have a face shield with you or cannot bring yourself to give breaths, you can do chest compressions only

Remove the face shield from the packaging and place it over the nose and mouth of the patient. There are different types, some are a simple sheet of plastic that goes over the face, with a gauze pad where you blow the air through. You can still squeeze the nose and this simply easy to use face shield will stop you from coming into contact with any substances.

Some face masks have elastic on each side that you hook behind the ear to keep them in place, these have a one-way valve for you to blow into, which also stops you inhaling any exhaled air.

Both of these types of face shield are often available with a pouch and keyring, so that you always have it to hand. All BSI first aid kits come with some type of face shield.

Pocket masks are very effective, these are not always available in workplaces. They usually come in a plastic case which contains the mask itself. When removed from the case you need to push the mask so it "pops up", there is elastic that you place around the back of the patient's head to hold it in place and the air filled sack around the mask helps it to seal very well against the patient's face. They have a one-way valve and a cap that can be used for oxygen if it is available.

Face shields are inexpensive and very effective, they are one use only and should be disposed of safely.